Operation Anti-Freeze has kicked off its annual Winter Woolies Drive that aims to continue giving less fortunate children the gift of warmth.
Sharon Gordon, CEO of Operation Anti-Freeze, said the organisation is calling on Kempton Park residents to join the drive by assisting it in reaching its goals.
“It is better to give than receive. Open your hearts this winter to those whose lives are a daily struggle,” said Gordon.
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“Donations of blankets, beanies, tinned or dry food are welcomed. Monetary donations of any amount can be made to ensure the work done by the organisation continues.”
Residents can assist with donations of blankets, beanies and scarves or funds to purchase them.
The purpose of the drive is to provide blankets and beanies to children in the schools and food parcels for those in need.
“There are 715 children in schools and a further 75 in a settlement school as well as 50 children in an aftercare that we cater for.”
Gordon added that the handover will be done at selected schools and each child would also receive a food parcel before the schools close for the winter break.
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“Unfortunately, we cannot hand them to the child individually in government schools.
“The teacher who oversees the social welfare department at the school hands them out. At the schools and aftercare in the settlement areas, we can hand the warm items and food parcels to the children,” added Gordon.
Gordon said the distribution of blankets and food started in 2003 on a small scale.
She said the need has grown over the years, resulting in a Winter Woolies Drive that has run for the past 10 years, starting in April each year.
Gordon said they aim to collect and distribute before the schools close for the June/ July holidays.
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Donations can be dropped off at the organisation’s office at 41 Trig Road, Pomona or Anti-Freeze can arrange to collect the items from donors.
For more information, call the office on 011 979 5003/5 or email genesismin@mweb.co.za ,or visit the Facebook page, Operation Anti-Freeze.
